Delve into the exclusive world of Champagne and toast the drink of kings on this fully-guided tour from Paris. Leave ordinary life behind you as your fully air-conditioned coach chauffeurs you to the heart of French luxury, where you’ll learn the secrets behind this iconic indulgence.

On departure from Paris, your excitement will be matched only by your guide’s enthusiasm – their passion for the Champagne region leaves them eager to share their extensive knowledge – which becomes quickly evident when introducing you to the first stop on your tour; the quaint town of Épernay. This picturesque hamlet boasts the Avenue de Champagne, reputed to be the most expensive avenue in the world thanks to the hordes of champagne stowed in the chalk cellars that stretch for miles underneath it. Descend into these underground tunnels and explore them for yourself as you visit the esteemed champagne house of Mercier, known for being the number one selling champagne in France. Discover why these cellars were considered revolutionary at the time of their construction and learn about their architect – the visionary founder of this house.

As you finish plumbing the depths of the tunnels, it’s time to explore what lies above ground. You will benefit from some free time to discover this charming enclave, whether by strolling along the Avenue admiring the stunning mansions, or enjoying some traditional local cuisine, your guide will be on hand to offer tailored recommendations on how best to enjoy this lap of luxury.

It’s then time to settle comfortably back into your coach seat and watch the scenic Route de Champagne drift by as you take a winding tour through the rolling vineyards to your next destination, Hautvillers. Famous for being the birthplace of Champagne, this lovely village is home to a Benedictine abbey steeped in history – its cellar master was once a monk by the name of Dom Pérignon. Your guide will lead you through the heart of the village, regaling you with the history of this beautiful region, including that of its most famous resident and how he came to discover the secret recipe for this enchanting potion – in fact, he thought it so magical he is claimed to have cried ‘ Come quickly – I am tasting the stars!’. While Pérignon’s tomb in the local church is a monument to his legacy, Hautvillers also has a fascinating way of recognising the talents of its other inhabitants – beautiful forged iron signs decorate the faces of shops and houses; revealing the trade of those who dwell within.

Having explored two of the most iconic Champagne villages in France, you’ll now have the opportunity to discover a family-run boutique estate, the keys of its house passed down from generation to generation. Here, a local expert will walk you through every detail of the champagne-making process – you’ll roam the vineyard, learning about how the grapes are grown and nurtured, before visiting the pressoir where these carefully cultivated fruits are pressed, and where the estate’s award-winning champagne is delicately assembled. Your guide will also lead you through their candle-lit cellars, revealing trade secrets on how best to mature and store champagne, before allowing you a peek at their incredible collection of rare vintages. This estate has long been home to the very finest of champagnes – you will be thrilled to come across the stunning private chateau of Veuve Clicquot on your tour of these grounds.

Having worked up a thirst, end your visit with a tasting of 3 of their champagnes as you relax on the beautiful terrace overseeing the vineyards stretching before you. With your palate honed and possibly with stars dancing in your mouth, board your private coach back to Paris and ordinary life, happy in the knowledge that you have experienced a drop of paradise.

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What's included

Visit of Mercier Champagne cellars and champagne tasting

Guided walking tour of Hautvillers

Guided visit of a private champagne estate and champagne tasting

Expert, English-speaking tour guides

Small groups of 25 people or fewer

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Lunch

Reduced price

Children (4-14): reduced

Children (0-3): free

Where

Opéra Bastille, Place de la Bastille, 75012 Paris

Meeting point:

Meet us 15 minutes before depature on the steps in front of the Opera Bastille - Metro stop: Bastille (lines 1, 5 or 8), 15 minutes before departure.

What to remember

We do not recommend this tour for customers with health conditions and recommend comfortable shoes for all guest

This tour is not accessible to guests with wheelchairs, strollers or baby carriages

Please note that Mercier may be closed on some dates, in this event we will visit alternative venues